How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is usually used to operate industrial lift trucks or forklifts. There is the option to have refueling capabilities on site or to have cylinders brought to your facility. Operators who are working with forklifts which utilize propane must be trained to handle substances that are extremely flammable.
1 Prior to refueling, you must wear personal protective equipment. Thick leather gloves must be worn to prevent liquid propane from coming into contact with the hands. The liquid is very cold and could result in severe burns. Other protective equipment includes goggles and a full face shield. A fire extinguisher must always be nearby.
2 The forklift should be shut down first. Make certain there are no open flames in the area and no lit cigarettes. Remove the protective cap on the fill valve and securely attach the fill line to the fill valve. When the fill line is in place, open the bleed valve with caution. It is normal to hear a hissing sound when opening the valve, but make certain it is air escaping - not propane.
3 Open the fill valve on the fill line slowly. Check around the connections and make certain that there are no leaks. Then open the valve more and let the propane enter the tank. Check the tank while refueling; as soon as it is full, the bleeder valve would release a spray of white gas. Turn off the fill valve completely first prior to closing the bleeder valve. Carefully take the fill line out of the tank. A small amount of gas that is escaping during this time is normal. Screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Inspect all valves in order to make certain that they are completely closed. Now, your truck is refueled and ready to drive.